Question

When designing an optimal synthetic pathway, what two factors most often compete with each other?

a) Yield and cost
b) Temperature and pressure
c) Reactivity and selectivity
d) Mass and volume

Answer 1

In designing an optimal synthetic pathway, yield and cost are the two factors that often compete with each other, as higher yield might increase costs.

Step-by-step explanation:

When designing an optimal synthetic pathway, the two factors that most often compete with each other are yield and cost. A higher yield means more product is generated from the reactants, which is generally desired. However, processes that result in higher yields may require more expensive reagents, conditions, or equipment, thereby increasing the total cost of the synthesis.

Conversely, a pathway with a lower cost may not optimize the yield, potentially resulting in wastage of materials and energy. Balancing these two factors is crucial for the efficient and economical production of chemicals, such as pharmaceutical drugs where numerous steps can significantly reduce the overall percent yield and increase costs.